Engineering Ambassadors Biographies

Marita Moya

President

Senior

Hometown: Austin, TX

Civil Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

The best part about the WCOE is the interaction and resources it provides to the students. There are abundant opportunities to get the students involved and to lead them onto success

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be, and why?

If I could study abroad anywhere I would go to Rome, Italy. I am interested in Rome because it contains the city-state of Vatican City and is enriched with the history of the Italian Renaissance.

Ryan Bratton

External Vice President

Senior

Hometown: Stephenville, TX

Petroleum Engineering

Why did you pick Engineering?

I always knew that I wanted to be an engineer because I have always enjoyed building and tinkering with things. I enjoy math and science classes because they are challenging, and because they help to explain what happens around us every day. Engineering is also an ever expanding and exciting field where almost anything is possible.

Who is your favorite superhero?

I would say my favorite superhero is probably Batman because of all of the cool gadgets and tools he uses. Batman doesn't let a difficult challenge stop him, either. When confronted with a difficult challenge, he doesn’t give up; he finds another way to solve the problem.

Landon Stallings

Internal Vice President

Junior

Hometown: Artesia, NM

Petroleum Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

I firmly believe that engineers are what make the world turn. Without men and women in society who can design, implement, fix, and maintain our major systems, we would not be able to function in the ways we know possible. Being an engineer is something that I am passionate about, and pride myself in knowing that I am contributing something that has a crucial effect on our lives.

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Batman. He doesn't have what we call "super powers"; he is only a man who cares about the greater good. Even though he is viewed as a bad guy occasionally, he knows what it takes to get the job done. He may not be the hero the people are looking for, but he is the savior they need.

Aide Ponce

Secretary

Senior

Hometown: Hobbs, NM

Chemical Engineering

Who is your favorite superhero?

Wolverine from X-Men

What do you like best about the WCOE?

The best thing about the WCOE is all of the people that work in the WCOE. Everyone is very friendly and nice, as well as helpful.

Dan Beeler

Treasurer

Senior

Hometown: Cooper, TX

Mechanical Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

The job fair. The WCOE and its staff do everything they can to give us opportunities for internships and jobs.

Why did you pick engineering?

I picked engineering because engineers are the people who "make the world go 'round". Everything you see in society has an engineer behind it.

Gage Anderson King

Officer in Training

Sophomore

Hometown: Aledo, Texas

Environmental Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

The family atmosphere that the faculty and staff portray. Loving, stern and always supportive.

Who is your favorite superhero?

James Bond or Liam Neeson

Raphael Akinsipe

Senior

Hometown: Katy, TX

Petroleum Engineering

Why did you pick Engineering?

Engineering was an easy choice to make because it gave me the opportunity to use all of the skills and talents I was blessed with, but also open the doors to a world of knowledge that I was eager to know. After so many years of working on projects at home with my dad and entering into invention competitions, I knew that I needed to pick a future that would give me a mental challenge and the chance to solve problems. So, I used a great deal of time to study different career paths and how they combined my interests, and engineering came out the clear winner. Furthermore, as my passion for the energy industry grew it helped me concentrate my focus on a single facet of engineering: petroleum engineering.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be and why?

Although there are several places in the world I would love to visit and be educated one country is the most all-encompassing for my study abroad criteria. That country is Nigeria and this choice is based on a combination of my heritage and its relation to my career path. Nigeria is a developing nation with a strong petroleum history, and as aspiring petroleum engineer it would be great opportunity to not only be educated under their system, but a chance to dive into the world of international natural resources. Furthermore, because Nigeria is where my father attended college it would be an amazing chance to walk the halls he once walked and see how it has grown since then.

Tania Amaya

Senior

Hometown: Garland, TX

Mechanical Engineering

If you could pick anywhere the world to study abroad, where would it be and why?

France because I love their art and language, and hope to someday live there.

Who is your favorite superhero?

Batman

Francis Atore

Senior

Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya

Chemical Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

One thing that I like about the WCOE is the diverse opportunities offered to achieve practical, leadership and cultural experiences.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be, and why?

If I could study abroad anywhere in the world it would be in Holloway, London. That way I could attend the Arsenal games!

Simon Bainbridge

Junior

Hometown: Houston, TX

Petroleum Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

I really enjoy the cultural diversity in WCOE. At Tech I have had the opportunity to meet and study with people from all over the world.

Why did you pick engineering?

I have always had strong interests in mathematics, science, and technology. Couple these interests with a passion for solving problems and there really was only one career for me - engineering!

Alexander D`abreu

Senior

Hometown: London, England

Computer Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

The best aspects of the Whitacre College of Engineering revolve around the welcoming atmosphere that it presents to both new and old students. This can be seen from the majority of professors having an open door policy for their office, to the notion that students will welcome any questions you may have regarding engineering in general.

Why did you pick engineering?

I chose to study engineering, putting my subpar high-school math skills aside, as I wanted to be a part of the modern computer industry and to hopefully pave the way for the future. I had also been very interested in troubleshooting different computer issues and looking into what actually makes a computer work.

Christopher Coker

Junior

Hometown: Houston, TX

Mechanical Engineering

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Batman because he doesn't have powers, but still gets the job done.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be, and why?

If I could study anywhere in the world, I would study in Germany because It would be fun to experience a new culture that I know nothing about!

Jennifer Cox

Senior

Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas

Mechanical Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

The best facet of the college is the abundance of opportunities and support offered by faculty and staff members. Whether it is advice on classes, homework or project assistance, and ways to enhance yourself both academically and professionally, there is someone present and willing to help. There has been no shortage of encouragement from every person I've encountered thus far. The WCOE are true advocates for their students.

Why did you pick Engineering?

As many of us say: I did not choose engineering, engineering chose me. I ventured down several academic paths in my early years of college, all ultimately leading me towards engineering. It was a trial and error process to find the perfect fit based on the type of career I was interested in pursuing. Engineering hits every key point I had been searching for.

Vince Dominic

Junior

Hometown: Houston, TX

Electrical Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

The Whitacre College of Engineering provides a plethora of opportunities to all of its engineers. Here we have every opportunity to create and achieve the goals we set for ourselves. I like to say that the sky is the limit for WCOE engineers; not because we produce engineers for the workplace, but because we produce people who can engineer their lives as best as we see fit.

If you could pick anywhere the world to study abroad, where would it be and why?

I've been lucky enough to travel to many countries. The one that sticks out the most would be Malaysia, and I would love an opportunity to study there. Not only is the country very technologically advanced, but the people there are so friendly and endearing.

Steven Hastings

Senior

Hometown: Allen, TX

Industrial Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

I chose engineering because I've always been inclined towards math and science. I love the flexibility of being an engineer and the opportunity to help people with my skills.

What do you like about the WCOE?

I like that the WCOE dedicates so much time towards making their students ready to enter the workforce. They give students the resources they need to walk across the stage at graduation with a job.

Umeadi Ifeadi

Junior

Hometown: Sugar Land, Texas

Chemical Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

I particularly like the WCOE because of the "Open Door" policy of the professors. It makes me know that the professors are willing to help students achieve their goals.

Why did you pick engineering?

I picked engineering (Chemical Engineering particularly) because I got interested in the amount of waste that is produced during fracking. I hope to try to come up with a strategy to reduce the amount of chemicals used or the amount of waste water produced from the drilling of crude oil.

AJ Johnston

Sophomore

Hometown: Yoakum, TX

Petroleum Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

I love hands-on type work. I am also interested in understanding the details of how certain processes work to the fullest extent and I love math.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad where would it be and why?

I would pick Brazil because the country is beautiful and my wife's extended family is there.

Caitlin Kuglen

Senior

Hometown: San Antonio, TX

Civil Engineering

Tell about a hidden talent that you have.

My hidden talent is singing.

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Batman.

Kristine Larsen

Senior

Hometown: Dallas, TX

Industrial Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

I like all the services the WCOE provides students: The info sessions, the resume critiques, and the study abroad opportunities. They really want their students to succeed and get the most out of their education.

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Superman because I absolutely loved the show Smallville.

Amir Laylaz

Sophomore

Hometown: Montreal, Canada

Petroleum Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

What I like best about the college is the colossal effort that is invested in securing internships and post-graduate job placements for the students. All the resources for success are readily available with plenty of instructions on how to best take advantage of them.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be, and why?

I would pick Tokyo, Japan, because it is the most populous metropolitan area in the world. I would love to explore the abundance of life and excitement that the city offers. And of course, there’s the famous Zen Gardens that I’d love to meditate at.

Why did you pick engineering?

Tell about a hidden talent that you have.

My most hidden talent is drumming. I was a percussionist for 7 years in school, and I have taught classes and lessons for the past 3 years. I'm not real good anymore, but I can still keep up.

Steven Martinez

Junior

Hometown: New Braunfels, Texas

Civil Engineering

Why did you pick Engineering?

I like overcoming obstacles, and engineering promised many.

Who is your favorite Superhero?

Batman. He's just an ordinary guy who does extraordinary things; kind of like an engineer!

Danielle McNeese

Graduate

Hometown: Midland, TX

Mechanical Engineering

Who is your favorite superhero?

Iron Man. I would marry Tony Stark.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad where would it be and why?

England. Because I need to practice my accent out on the locals.

Christopher Mize

Senior

Hometown: Ropesville, TX

Mechanical Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

I chose engineering because my entire life I have had a craving for knowledge about how the world around me works. Growing up, I also liked taking stuff apart and tinkering with mechanical devices. This is what ultimately led me to choose mechanical engineering.

Tell about a hidden talent that you have.

A talent (or more of a hobby really) that I have is playing the guitar. I began playing guitar in Jr. High, and really enjoy it, but I don’t have as much time to do it now that I am an engineering student.

Sergio Molinar

Junior

Hometown: Hobbs, New Mexico

Industrial Engineering

Why did you pick Engineering?

I chose engineering because I have always been a problem solver, and my competitive nature pushes me to solve problems faster, better, and smarter. I see problems as the opponent, and I definitely don't plan on losing. Also, most importantly, I embrace the responsibility of protecting the civilian world, which is the goal of the engineering profession.

Who is your favorite Superhero?

My favorite Superhero, or villain in this case, is the Juggernaut. He isn't well-known outside of the realm of nerds that I belong to, but he and I are similar in that once we set ourselves in a certain direction "no obstacle or force on Earth was able to stop him.” Although he can be slowed, he can't be stopped. I feel that this attitude is especially important in engineering.

Ernest Munoz

Sophomore

Hometown: Midland, Texas

Petroleum Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

One of the best aspects of the college is the family atmosphere that the faculty and staff portray. The faculty and staff have an “open door” policy and truly care about the success and well being of each student.

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad, where would it be, and why?

If I could study anywhere in world, I would choose France because of the rich cuisine and the beautiful countryside.

Emily Myers

Senior

Hometown: San Antonio, TX

Environmental Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

Math and science were always my best and favorite classes in school. When I learned about engineering, I knew I could combine the subjects that I love, and make it my career. I also love a challenge, and studying engineering keeps me on my toes. I learn something new every day!

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad where would it be and why?

If I could study abroad anywhere in the world, I would definitely choose England. I was born there and I would love to go back and really experience the country. In Europe, as well, they are very environmentally conscious, which is perfect for my major, and I feel I could learn a lot about the country's environmental regulations and set ups.

Bailey Scarborough

Junior

Hometown: Lubbock, TX

Environmental Engineering

Who is your favorite superhero?

My favorite superhero is Harry Potter (yes, he is a superhero), because he overcomes so many difficult obstacles in his life and puts others before himself.

What do you like best about WCOE?

My favorite thing about the WCOE is how the professors, staff and my fellow classmates are all respectful, kind and willing to help others out. The atmosphere here is encouraging and pleasant.

Marissa Smartt

Sophomore

Hometown: Andrews, Texas

Petroleum Engineering

What do you like best about WCOE?

What I like best about WCOE is the fact I have a great support system here. It's a mixture of faculty, professors and students. I am challenged on a daily basis and there is always a tool or someone to help you solve a problem and advance to the next step. It's a lot of hard work, but it's worth it!

Why did you pick engineering?

I chose engineering through experience. I was pursuing a different field and was able to work under an engineer at a small oil company in Midland. He showed me what he did on a daily basis and let me do some really cool things out in the field, like participating in acid jobs and Frac jobs. So I dropped out of my current degree (pre-vet) at San Angelo and jumped right into Texas Tech with less than a month until school started. It was a huge risk at the time, but it definitely paid off! I love it here.

Heath Spear

Junior

Hometown: Lubbock, TX

Chemical Engineering

Who is your favorite superhero?

Between Batman/Iron Man

Tell about a hidden talent you have.

Speaking Spanish?

Brock Tittle

Senior

Hometown: Seminole, TX

Mechanical Engineering

If you could pick anywhere in the world to study abroad where would it be and why?

I would study in Australia, because I would like to scuba dive with great white sharks on the weekends.

Why did you pick engineering?

I picked engineering knowing that there is always going to be new and interesting work. I also love the idea of one day designing something that will benefit others.

Patrick Tone

Junior

Hometown: Lubbock, TX

Computer Science

What do you like best about WCOE?

The WCOE diverts a huge amount of its resources to our success. Not only through recruitment events and various trainings, but also everything that goes on behind the scenes. The WCOE wants us to succeed in every aspect of our lives, not just in our chosen fields of study.

Why did you pick engineering?

In the words of Isaac Newton, "If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." I want to be a part of growing the giants so that future generations can see even further.

Brian Wang

Junior

Hometown: Austin, TX

Chemical Engineering

Why did you pick engineering?

I chose engineering because of my curiosity about how things work and my interest in solving problems. Hopefully I can take the skills I gain to create innovations to help make the world a better place.

If you could pick anywhere the world to study abroad, where would it be and why?

If I could study abroad anywhere in the world, I would choose Australia because it seems like an adventurous place and I have always wanted to visit.

Shivani Vyas

Senior

Hometown: Ahmedabad, India

Petroleum Engineering

What do you like best about the WCOE?

WCOE offers a great platform to reach out and deliver the wonderful experience of both pursuing the goal of becoming a world-class engineer and the impact engineers have in the global economy.

If you could pick anywhere the world to study abroad, where would it be and why?

Lubbock, Texas. Since I am international student, it is a perfect college town to explore and grow within a town known for the hospitality and strong sense of community. But if I would have to choose a study abroad within a study abroad it would be Germany. It's rich in history, has endured two world wars with a capital- Berlin representing different economic models (Socialism vs Capitalism), and has an impressive rise since 1990 after East and West Germany was unified.